Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Pixel Buds 2a Reviews Land as Google’s $129 ANC Earbuds Hit Shelves

Critics recommend waiting for discounts to make the purchase worthwhile.

Overview

  • Reviews confirm active noise cancellation driven by the Tensor A1 chip, with stable performance and Android-friendly features including Fast Pair and Gemini support.
  • Battery life matches claims at about seven hours per earbud with ANC on, though the compact case offers only around 20 hours total before recharging.
  • The smaller, stemless design earns praise for comfort and fit, with four ear tip sizes, a twist-to-secure stabilizer, and a rare user‑replaceable battery in the case.
  • Feature trade-offs include no wireless charging, no on‑ear volume control, fewer sensors than the Pro line, and touch controls that testers found inconsistent.
  • Sound is solid at low to mid volumes but can muddy at maximum levels, and transparency/passthrough performance drew mixed feedback across reviews.